Upcycling Old Containers into Succulent Planters
There are numerous succulent types that can thrive in smaller, sometimes strange, containers. I’ve seen succulents growing strong in eggshells, shoes and toilets. You can pretty much turn anything into a planter if you ensure proper drainage and sun conditions.
The most important thing to keep in mind when replanting succulents is to ensure your planter allows for excess water to be drained to prevent your plant from drowning. If your planter doesn’t have a drainage hole, add a layer of rocks to the bottom before adding your soil, and be careful not to over-water. To make this easier on yourself, I recommend using a clear container so that you can have better control over how much watering you choose to do.
The containers I used here are leftover yogurt containers that were a perfect size for my hen and chick babies. You can use teacups, cans, pots, or anything else that makes you feel inspired, so don’t feel limited to using just jars!
Materials:
Small containers
Baby succulents (I recommend hen and chick or jade plants, as they are less finicky)
Small rocks
Potting soil
Method:
Begin by adding rocks to your container until it is about one quarter full, and fill the remaining space with potting soil.
Gently dig out your baby succulent, being careful not to disturb the leaves or roots (if a few leaves fall, don’t worry, but do your best to keep as many intact as possible!). Create a small well in the centre of your new mini planter, and carefully place the baby succulent inside, arranging the soil around it’s base and gently pressing to secure it.
Now water your succulent, and you’re good to go! Keep in a sunny place and water every few days to keep it healthy and strong. The benefit to using small rocks is that you can very quickly see the water trickle down past the soil when you have watered enough. If you keep your eye on this, you can easily prevent your succulents from drowning.
lost a little leaf, but all was well!
Once you master taking care of the easier succulents, feel free to move onto something more advanced. Succulents come in a huge variety of types, and they always add a beautiful touch to any space you decide to make their home.
Get creative with different types of plants and planters and don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty!